Karen Lee Watkins, age 72, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Tuesday night, December 12, 2023, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

     She was born January 15, 1951, in Flora, the daughter of Bobbie Gene and Katheryn “Katie” Maybell (Connerley) Carter.  She married Lee Watkins on April 16, 1983, in Flora, and they shared over 40 years of marriage.  Together, they embraced life’s joys and weathered the challenges, sustaining a lasting and supportive love.

     Karen was part of the Sparton Manufacturing organization beginning in 1973 had been working in the press room when the plant was closed.  She went on to work at Hella for 20 years until her retirement as a quality and receiving inspector.  She volunteered with the Clay County Hospital Auxiliary where she especially enjoyed her time at the front desk.

     Camping was a favorite activity for Karen, Lee, and Calvin, and they spent summers at Kuhl’s Campground for 36 years, meeting countless people and some special friends who shared in times that will always be remembered.  She also took annual trips to Branson where she enjoyed attending shows and wasn’t afraid to try out all kinds of new and old restaurants, both big and small, in search of great food. 

     During her time at home, Karen would tend to a large vegetable garden and canned bountiful amounts of tomatoes, corn, and green beans, usually storing about half and generously giving the other half away to make certain that friends and visitors would never leave the house empty handed.  Her innate generosity, coupled with a vibrant spirit, oftentimes brought “life to the party.” 

     Proudly graduating from Flora High School in 1969, Karen remained connected with her roots.  She took an active role in organizing 5-year reunions and attended monthly luncheons with classmates and continued lasting friendships. Above all, Karen's truest love was found in the time she spent with her cherished family.

     She is survived by her husband, Lee Watkins of Flora; her son, Calvin Watkins of Flora; and extended family and special people including a best friend, Janette McCorkle.  She will also be lovingly missed by the two cats who shared the house, Doc and Festus.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Vernon Carter; and her sister-in-law, Dee Ann Staley.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2023, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery.  There will be a visitation from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Hospital Auxiliary, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com